God forgives when we forgive others

“Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” (Luke 6:37)

God’s forgiveness is a free gift because of Christ’s work on the cross (Matt. 26:28). But look at what he says in the verse above. He says we are to forgive, and then we will be forgiven. And the following passage is very clear.

“For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matt. 6:14-15 ESV))

Why is this important?

Not being willing or able to forgive those who have sinned against us is a sign of unbelief. The fact is that anyone who chooses to withhold forgiveness has not been to the cross and has not allowed God to forgive them of their own sins.

Therefore

“And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” (Mark. 11:25 ESV)

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Eph. 4:32  ESV) 

“Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.” (Matt. 8:21-22 ESV)